A recent survey highlights shifting trends in job-switching among UK office workers post-Covid-19.
- 14% of workers planned to change jobs before the pandemic and followed through, especially among the youngest age group.
- Security concerns deterred 51% of potential job switchers during Covid-19, while 43% lacked confidence in the job market.
- Post-pandemic, salary ranks as the top priority for 46% of workers, with flexibility and company culture following.
- Regional preferences indicate industry shifts, with Northern Ireland favouring Creative Arts.
The survey conducted by Moneypenny among UK office workers reveals significant changes in job-switching attitudes due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Notably, 14% of those surveyed were planning to change jobs before Covid-19 and proceeded to do so during the pandemic. The trend was most pronounced among 18 to 24-year-olds, with 44% of them having switched jobs.
Despite the initial intent to change jobs, 51% of respondents chose to remain in their positions, citing job security concerns during the pandemic. A lack of confidence in the job market deterred 43% from making a switch, and the pervasive impact of Covid-19 was a factor for 39%.
The survey unveils varied job-switching outcomes, with 41% taking similar roles with better prospects. Other choices included taking a break before switching (23%), accepting a promotion (22%), or even a demotion to grow within a new company (22%). Additionally, 21% moved to part-time, while 19% chose entrepreneurship, and 14% returned to study.
From a gender perspective, the poll highlighted disparities, with only 17% of women achieving significant promotions compared to 30% of men. This disparity underscores ongoing gender dynamics in career advancement post-pandemic.
When considering aspects of job significance, 64% reported a change in priorities due to Covid-19’s impact. Salary emerged as the most crucial factor for 46%, followed by general flexibility (22%), hybrid working options (11%), and company culture (9%). Benefits trailed at 6%.
Regionally, preferences in sectors to switch careers varied. Northern Ireland showed a strong inclination towards the Creative Arts and Design sector at 50%, while Scotland leaned towards Environment and Culture at 21%. Regional preferences also highlighted East Midland’s inclination towards finance and East Anglia’s interest in business management.
A noteworthy 59% expressed no intention of changing their jobs shortly, reflecting a trend of stability and perhaps caution in the face of uncertain times. Joanna Swash, Group CEO at Moneypenny, commented, “The pandemic has led many of us to re-evaluate our life choices and what is important to us.”
The survey reflects a cautious yet evolving landscape of job-switching among UK office workers post-pandemic.
